BRING REWARDS
Conte’s cunning plan works to perfection for Chelsea
LONDON clash against Southampton tomorrow and the bold move proved an inspired decision.
Willian, Hazard’s replacement, scored twice, before the Belgian came on in the second half to put Chelsea ahead for good in the 75th minute.
Conte conceded he had rolled the dice with his selection, but he was ready to accept the blame if the gamble had backfired.
“During the season there is a moment as a coach you must take a strong decision. You have to take a risk,” Conte said.
“If you win the plan worked, if you don’t the responsibility is on you. I think today our plan worked very well.
“Eden and Diego knew very well my plan because in this situation it is important to be clear to all of the players. Now I hope on Tuesday to get a great performance from Eden and Diego.”
“I am proud for this achievement. It is great for the players and for me. This is my first season in England and it is great to fight for the title and reach the final of the FA Cup, a great competition.” Reaching a first FA Cup final since they last won the competition in 2012 keeps Chelsea on course for the double in Conte’s first season in charge.
Chelsea have a four-point lead over second placed Tottenham in the title race and their Wembley win could be a huge momentum shift for Conte’s men.
However, Conte claims Chelsea have been harshly treated by the Premier League fixture planners as the leaders try to survive a “crucial week” in the title race.
He fears Chelsea’s chances of holding off Tottenham have been hindered by the way the fixtures fall this week.
Tomorrow, Chelsea host Southampton, who will be refreshed after 10 days rest, while Tottenham have an extra day to recover before travelling to Crystal Palace on Wednesday.
Conte tried to plan ahead for the midweek schedule by leaving Hazard and Diego Costa on the bench for the first hour at Wembley. And with Palace having to play at Liverpool on Sunday before taking on Tottenham, Conte is concerned Mauricio Pochettino’s team will be able to make their extra rest pay off.
“This week is crucial for us because in this week Tottenham have the advantage,” Conte said.
“You must try to have balance with the fixtures and put both teams in the best situation to fight.
“Sometimes it’s very difficult to understand the fixtures, but we have to answer on the pitch.” Agencies